"Monday's protest marks the beginning of a rolling campaign opposing the new franchise's proposals for driver only operation and the sacking and reducing of the role of train guards and conductors, station de-staffing and the closure of ticket offices," said RMT acting general secretary Mick Cash.

"Passengers can now expect to see fares go up and a less safe service as the franchisee tries to squeeze as much profit as it can from the operation.

"Privatisation of the railways has been a total disaster. Rather than creating a new super-franchise the government should be bringing this essential service back under public control."

Govia also holds the Southern, Southeastern and London Midland franchises.